While most Canadian agricultural exports enjoy tariff-free access to the U.S. under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), vegetable growers in Ontario are digging through rocky soil. 🌽 Rising equipment costs and supply chain hurdles linked to global trade tensions continue to squeeze local farmers.
"It's like planting seeds without knowing if there'll be rain," one Ontario grower told reporters, describing the uncertainty facing small-scale producers. Though USMCA covers staples like grains and dairy, specialty crops face volatile pricing and competition from imports.
Experts say the situation highlights how trade deals don't always protect regional economies. With climate challenges adding pressure, Ontario's agricultural community is calling for targeted support to keep farms afloat. 🌾
Reference(s):
cgtn.com